You have read, studied compared and researched all possible sources to purchase one of the best travel insurance plans before taking the plunge and making a purchase. Even though you might think that you have purchased one of the best international or domestic travel insurance products, it is better to take some more cautionary steps so that you are more confident in your coverage.

Most often, people end their quest for good international or domestic travel insurance products as soon as they make the purchase and some crucial post-purchase steps remain forgotten. These steps can be considered an extra measure to ensure that you are not missing out anything even after you have purchased travel insurance. While these are a handful of steps, they can help you feel more secure and confident about the coverage.

Here are 7 vital steps that must be heeded once you buy any of the international or domestic travel insurance products online:

1.Check that all details you have entered are correctThis might seem an obvious assumption, but you would be surprised to know that a great chunk of claims are rejected on the grounds that the insured submitted incorrect details. For instance, if it has been mentioned male for a female being insured, she may encounter difficulties when receiving any benefit of the travel insurance. Therefore it is recommended that all the personal as well as other relevant details such as travel dates, destinations even those of the layovers, flight details, hotel reservations, trip activities, medical history etc. are correctly mentioned in the policy document. Also, make sure that the complete duration of the travel is correctly included in the policy as for many contingencies the policy comes into force from the time you start your journey.

2.Print the confirmation emailOnce you purchase any of the international or even domestic travel insurance products online, you receive a confirmation email from your insurance provider. This email states all the necessary details as filled by you at the time of purchase/registration as well as the terms and conditions of the plan. Most of the insurance providers also include all the relevant emergency contact numbers in the email as well. Hence you must take a print of the confirmation email and carry it along on the trip with you.

In today’s digital age, taking and carrying a hard copy of the confirmation email or verified policy document might seem unnecessary but you never know when this document can come in handy, especially if you are traveling in areas without great network connectivity. In fact, travel experts suggest that you should carry a second copy of the insurance document or email confirmation in another bag and even keep a downloaded digital copy on your phone as well as the cloud. This way even if you lose your belongings, you can access your policy confirmation with ease.

3.Review your policy coverage and terms of coverageJust as you check any article for defects once you buy it, you must review the travel insurance policy once you have finalized the purchase. Make sure you read and go through the terms and conditions of the plan with a fine-tooth comb so as to prevent any misgivings relating to coverage. When you review the policy, ensure that all the terms of inclusion, as well as exclusion, are the same as you examined before the purchase. This step would also help you consider additional coverage in case any of your contingencies are not included in the travel insurance.

4.Check the exclusion of policyAll international, as well as domestic travel insurance products have a set of exclusion. This is the list of scenarios where your travel insurance would stand void. Check the exclusion policy for the insurance product you have purchased so that, if needed, you can look for changes or return the policy in your consideration period.

5.Contact your insurance provider for confirmation or clarityIn case you face any difficulty regarding the policy terms or there is some doubt that needs clarification, contact the insurance provider and get the issue addressed. It is also suggested that you procure clarity and understanding related to all possible contingencies from the insurer. For instance, which medical service providers have a tie-up with the insurance provider that would streamline and quicken claim process, how would you receive help in case you lose your belongings etc. This would help you understand the services of the insurance provider as well as make you more confident in your travel insurance coverage.

6.Make changes if necessaryAlmost all domestic travel insurance products come with a free look period, also known as the consideration period. This could range between one or two weeks, depending on the respective product. In this period you can make any changes to the policy and even return the policy for a full refund. Once you have checked and reviewed the policy, you can make any necessary changes online or by contacting your insurance provider.

7.Make a note and store all the emergency contact numbersLast but not the least; make sure that you store all the emergency contact numbers in your phone. These must include the 24X7 phone support of the insurance provider, your spouse and/or parents and a few other next of kin. Another great measure is to note these down and keep in your wallet as well in the bags of children traveling with you so that your emergency contacts can be notified timely in case of an emergency.

If you follow these steps you will be more secure and confident with your travel insurance and your travel plans. These measures can prove quite critical in the time of need and be your savior, making them as much important if not less than purchasing a travel insurance plan. What if you purchase the best travel insurance product after putting in much time and effort but can’t access the policy details in time of need? Steps like these are a double safety action that ensures your journey is smooth and hassle-free.